Thursday Hymn Reflection: “On Zion’s Glorious Summit”

[NOTE: Every Thursday, we “reflect” on a hymn suggested by our readers. If you would like to add your favorites to our list, leave a comment with up to 3 songs, and we will add them in the future. Thank you.]

Written in 1803, John Kent’s words are powerful and are still sung with great fervor. “On Zion’s Glorious Summit” is a song that is always sung with great passion.

When I sing the song, I cannot help but think of two sections of Scripture. First, I think of Hebrews 11-12. Chapter 11 lists all those great faithful men and women who served God despite extreme difficulties. Then, as chapter 12 opens, we are told that these people are watching us as a “cloud of witnesses.” They are, as it were, cheering us on, and watching as we do our best to walk with God.

The other section of Scripture this song brings to my mind is the book of Revelation. The host of faithful who overcome are a major part of that book, and they provide us with great motivation to press on. We often equate heaven with singing the praises of God, and that is what “On Zion’s Glorious Summit” evokes. It is a remembering of what the Lamb, Jesus, has done, and it is a looking forward to joining that great chorus that praises Him.

Of course, musically, the song features one of more unique “endings” in most song books. The “sanctus” of this song is almost always sung slower, and it brings this majestic song to a powerful close.

Here are the words of the song, followed by the sanctus:

On Zion’s glorious summit stood

A numerous host redeemed by blood!

They hymned their King in strains divine;

I heard the song and strove to join.

Here all who suffered sword or flame

For truth, or Jesus’ lovely name,

Shout victory now and hail the Lamb,

And bow before the great I AM.

While everlasting ages roll,

Eternal love shall feast their soul,

And scenes of bliss, forever new,

Rise in succession to their view.

Holy, holy, holy Lord,

God of hosts, on high adored!

Who like me Thy praise should sing,

O Almighty King!

Holy, holy, holy Lord,

God of hosts, on high adored!

Holy, holy, holy.

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Enjoy this beautiful recording of this hymn, then share your reflections on it.